On Wednesday, May 17 at 7:30 p.m., the 7-minute documentary short “Major” by the Pacific Beach filmmaker James Wright, will have a world premiere screening.

Wright is excited to share his film at the GI Film Festival San Diego. Last year, Wright participated in another film as a producer and cinematographer at the San Diego International Film Festival. However, this is his first time being a part of the festival as a director.

“I had the chance to meet the other filmmakers already, and hearing their stories was very inspiring and interesting. One of the big goals for me is to network with the people who are doing more advanced films than me, who made features, who are really taking the craft to the new height,” said Wright.

“Major” features Scott Eberlein’s story, who was a successful actor living in Hollywood in the late 1990s. But after the terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001, Eberlein joined the Army. He worked his way up to eventually reach the rank of major. Now, 21 years later, Eberlein is ready to retire and is preparing to adjust to his new life as a civilian and veteran.

As his godfather, Eberlein greatly influenced director Wright, who witnessed the journey throughout his career. Eberlein was a strong leader who was the center of attention. This was the value that Wright would strive for and apply in films to pull the best out of the people. He showed “resiliency” even though he underwent ups and downs in his life.

“Even in chaos, just keep moving forward,” said Eberlein, in the film.

Wright plans to continue his work and improve himself. He wants to create films about outdoor sports. “The Alpinist” by Peter Mortimer and Nick Rosen, and “14 Peaks: Nothing is Impossible” by Torquil Jones are films Wright recommends.

Additionally, he is interested in the story of the “human condition,” including mental health issues such as suicide or depression. He desires to open people’s eyes and send the message to them: “It is what we all go through, and they are not alone.”

For more information about GI Film Festival SD: https://gifilmfestivalsd.org/2023/. “Major” by James Wright at https://gifilmfestivalsd.org/2023/movies/major/.

James Wright’s recommendations: “The Alpinist” https://youtu.be/wwCKy1CCbn0;

“14 Peaks: Nothing is Impossible” https://youtu.be/8QH5hBOoz08